BMW reveals Adventure evolution for R 1200 GS

The 2014 model is powered by the same air/liquid-cooled boxer engine featured on the R 1200 GS, with a displacement of 1170cc and an output of 92 kW (125 hp) at 7750 rpm. The standout feature of the power unit -- introduced earlier -- is the new precision cooling system that uses water instead of oil as the cooling agent. Also new is the engine's through-flow (intake/exhaust), which is now vertical to make power output more efficient; and a six-speed gearbox integrated into the engine housing along with the wet clutch.

Like the R 1200 GS, the Adventure is built around a robust and torsionally resistant tubular steel spaceframe, according to BMW. However, it has a larger lightweight aluminum fuel tank (7.9 gallons - 2.6 gallons more than on the R 1200 GS) to provide increased range. For the first time on a BMW production bike, the maintenance-free cardan-shaft drive is positioned on the left side. To enhance the ride, especially off-road, the drive's flywheel mass has been increased by 2.1 lbs. and BMW has incorporated an extra vibration damper into the powertrain.

The R 1200 GS Adventure has ABS as standard, as well as Automatic Stability Control (ASC) and two riding modes ("Rain" and "Road"), which enhance range of use while boosting safety on slippery surfaces, BMW said.

Three additional riding modes may be added by ordering an optional Ride Modes Pro feature, which is accompanied by the Enduro settings for ABS and ASC. The three extra riding modes, which are activated with a coding plug, make it possible to adjust the settings of the ASC and ABS and, if fitted, the semi-active suspension Dynamic ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment) to suit the specific requirements of off-road operation, the company noted.

The Adventure features a new chassis setup, with an additional 0.8 inches of spring travel, increased ground clearance and a trailing arm with modified geometry for better handling, The vehicle has a larger windshield with hand-wheel adjustment, additional air flaps and hand guards to increase wind and weather protection. Wide enduro footrests; adjustable, reinforced foot-operated levers; and restyled bodywork add the finishing touches.

Three new colors are available: olive matt, alpine white and racing blue metallic.

Here's additional technical information from BMW Motorrad:

ENGINE
Like the R 1200 GS, the new R 1200 GS Adventure also features the newly developed twin-cylinder boxer engine with an output of 92 kW (125 hp) at 7,750 rpm and a peak torque of 125 Nm (92 lb-ft) at 6,500 rpm. The new power unit has a displacement of 1,170 cc, as did the engine on the previous model. It still relies on air/liquid cooling, but with water instead of oil as the cooling agent – the water’s higher heat absorption capacity ensures more efficient heat dissipation. With this system of precision cooling, as it is known, only the parts of the engine that are particularly exposed to thermal stress are cooled by the coolant. The engine continues to be air-cooled too, thereby preserving the characteristic appearance of the boxer unit and its ability to handle tough operating conditions

The through-flow (intake/exhaust) is vertical for optimum cylinder charging and the engine housing incorporates the six-speed gearbox as well as an oil-bath clutch with anti-hopping function. The secondary drive runs via the maintenance-free cardan shaft that is now positioned on the left-hand side.

The flywheel mass of the boxer engine’s crankshaft was increased by 2.1 lbs. This results in even smoother engine running and is of particular benefit when riding off-road at low speeds and low revs, such as when negotiating tight trails. The running characteristics are further enhanced by an additional vibration damper between the gearbox output and the cardan shaft.

Thanks to the E-gas ride-by-wire system, the rider’s inputs are relayed by a sensor on the throttle twist grip directly to the engine management, which adjusts the opening angle of the throttle valve accordingly. This produces a significant improvement in the new power unit’s controllability and response, while the introduction of the standard riding modes further enables the rider to adapt the engine’s character to the situation at hand. (continued)